
One of the biggest stories of last offseason was the physical transformation of Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic. Coming into his first full season with the team, Doncic dropped significant weight and was noticeably slimmer than he has been in previous years.
Doncic dedicated himself to working out and an improved diet and that has not stopped during this season. In fact, a childhood friend of Doncic’s claims he has lost another seven pounds since the start of the season and is fully healthy with the playoffs around the corner, via Aleksander Hemon on LinkedIn:
“Luka just told me the other day – he has lost another 7 pounds,” the associate revealed with a proud smile. “On top of what he already dropped this season, he is now moving like a completely different player. He feels light on his feet, his explosiveness is back, and most importantly, that stinging pain in his right calf that troubled him so much back in 2024 is completely gone. He says he is fully healthy heading into the playoffs, and you can hear the confidence in his voice.”
The friend, who wished to remain unnamed but has known Luka since their childhood years in Ljubljana, described how the mega superstar has transformed his body and mindset this season.
“He has been incredibly dedicated. Changed his diet, worked hard on mobility and strength, improved his recovery and sleep – everything. The calf used to burn after tough games and practices. Now he cuts, drives, jumps, and plays heavy minutes without any issue. He looks leaner, stronger, and honestly, happier playing basketball than I have seen him in a long time.”
Doncic has certainly looked much quicker throughout the season for the Lakers and it has served him well as he is on his way to his second career scoring title. But it has also shown in his defense as Doncic has been much more active jumping in passing lanes for steals and challenging shots as well.
This has been one of Doncic’s best seasons of his career and his dedication to his body has played a large role in his performance. As long as he continues to do this going forward, Doncic will remain one of the best players in the NBA and, hopefully, lead the Lakers to a championship in the future.
Unfortunately for Doncic and the Lakers, he won’t be playing in the team’s game against the Washington Wizards as he must serve a one-game suspension for picking up his 16th technical foul of the season. And head coach JJ Redick says the superstar is disappointed in himself for not being able to suit up.
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